Trump envoy Witkoff heads to Middle East to seek extension of Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal

Steve Witkoff, President Trump's envoy, plans to return to the Middle East this week to negotiate an extension of Phase One of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal. He aims to secure more hostage releases and prepare for Phase Two discussions. Witkoff will visit several countries, including Israel and Qatar, and emphasized the importance of the last American hostage, Edan Alexander, in negotiations. He stated that Hamas should not be part of any future governance in Gaza. Israel has delayed the release of Palestinian prisoners due to Hamas's violations of the ceasefire agreement. The situation remains tense, with ongoing discussions about the future of hostages and the region's stability.